The aromas and memories of Christmas are sweet to us if we have spent our years in freedom and peace. However, we take a moment to remember war-torn countries and families who have lost members through the brutality of war.
There will be many empty places at tables this year, and in many instances, families have been displaced and cannot celebrate in their usual way. We ask for God's comfort amidst the hurt and tragedy of war and pray for truce agreements and the preservation of life.
Christmas is a time of peace. When the Lord Jesus was born in Bethlehem, He fulfilled a number of precise prophecies in the Old Testament regarding His origin in eternity, the place of His birth and the essence of His being: PEACE!
But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah,
Though you are little among the thousands of Judah,
Yet out of you shall come forth to Me
The One to be Ruler in Israel,
Whose goings forth are from of old,
From everlasting.
Micah 5:2
And this One shall be peace.
Micah 5:5a
Our world is crying out for peace today. The One who is Peace was born in the outside place and lived among us in unfathomable humility. He came to give His life on the cross to give us His peace and eternal salvation. He offers the deep calm and assurance of His shalom to burdened hearts today.
Take time out of your busy Christmas schedule to seek Him and He will fill you with the warmth of His presence - He is our peace!
May His peace be His gift to you this Christmas.
For unto us a Child is born,
Unto us a Son is given;
And the government will be upon His shoulder.
And His name will be called
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:6
